Cajun Cream Beef and Shrimp Pasta
Servings
4–6 servings
Ingredients
For the protein:
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1/2 pound (225 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1/2 pound (225 g) beef sirloin or ribeye, thinly sliced
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1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (divided)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the pasta and sauce:
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12 ounces (340 g) fettuccine or penne pasta
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup chicken broth (or beef broth for a deeper flavor)
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water. -
Prepare the beef and shrimp
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Pat the shrimp and beef dry with paper towels.
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Season both with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
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Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Sear the beef for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, cook the shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the beef.
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Make the sauce
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In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
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Sauté onion and red bell pepper for about 3–4 minutes until softened.
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Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Stir in the remaining Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
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Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
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Combine
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Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
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Add the beef and shrimp back into the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.
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If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
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Serve
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Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
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Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
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Tips
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You can substitute chicken for beef if preferred.
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For extra creaminess, stir in 2 ounces of cream cheese before adding the pasta.
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Use homemade Cajun seasoning for more control over salt and spice levels.
Would you like me to include a homemade Cajun seasoning mix recipe to go with this?
